Supervisor, Production & Trades

De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited; Calgary; Hybrid; CAD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited in Calgary seeks a Supervisor, Production & Trades to oversee daily production on the floor and drive efficiency, safety, and quality. You will lead technicians, coordinate with multiple departments, and push continuous improvement initiatives to meet aerospace standards.

The role requires flexibility for day or evening shifts and deep knowledge of lean practices, GD&T, and quality control in a high-precision environment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or CAEC required; associate or bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Experience: 5+ years manufacturing with 2+ years in supervision and 10+ staff across shifts.
• Aerospace or high-precision manufacturing experience highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and mentor technicians; lead a high-performance team.
• Plan daily production; coordinate schedules to meet delivery and quality goals.
• Monitor workflow; ensure equipment and personnel are used efficiently.
• Identify training gaps and implement improvements with cross-functional teams.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Problem solving

Communication

Lean manufacturing

GD&T interpretation

Quality mindset

Education

High school diploma or CAEC

Associate or Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Industrial Engineering

Tools

JDE ERP

Quality inspection tools

Job description

De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited (DHC) is a storied name in the aerospace industry, recognized worldwide for its pioneering contributions to aviation and its unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and reliability. Headquartered in Calgary, AB, DHC currently has approximately 2,400 employees across British Columbia, Alberta and Ontario, as well as in markets and distribution hubs world-wide.

Established in 1928, De Havilland Canada has a rich history marked by the development of some of the most iconic and versatile aircraft ever built. These aircraft have served a variety of roles—from bush flying to commercial aviation—and are celebrated for their rugged durability, operational versatility, and excellence in performance.

Over the decades, De Havilland Canada has evolved to meet the changing needs of the aviation industry. Today, we are more than just an aircraft manufacturer; we are a comprehensive aerospace company with capabilities that span design, production, maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services. Our operations are supported by a team of skilled engineers, technicians, and industry professionals who are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of craftsmanship and innovation.

Position Summary

The Supervisor, Production & Trades, oversees daily operations on the Production Floor, ensuring efficient production, adherence to quality standards, and compliance with safety protocols. This role involves leading a team of technicians, coordinating with various departments, and driving continuous improvement initiatives to meet the stringent demands of the aerospace industry.

Please note that candidates must be available to work either day or evening shifts, as the work schedule will be determined based on operational requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and mentor technicians, fostering a collaborative and high-performance work environment.
• Conduct regular team meetings to communicate goals, expectations, and updates.
• Manage work schedules, assignments, and performance evaluations.
• Assess training requirements or gaps, and provide recommendations forward where necessary.

Production Oversight

• Plan and coordinate daily production activities to meet delivery schedules and quality standards.
• Monitor workflow, ensuring optimal utilization of equipment and personnel.
• Implement and oversee quality control measures in compliance with aerospace industry regulations.

Process Improvement

• Identify opportunities for process enhancements to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and lower costs.
• Collaborate with engineering and quality assurance teams to implement lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.

Safety & Compliance

• Enforce safety protocols and ensure a safe working environment.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, industry standards, and regulatory requirements.

Equipment & Maintenance

• Coordinate with maintenance teams to ensure machinery and equipment are properly maintained and operational.
• Oversee the procurement and inventory of materials, tools, and shop supplies.

Qualifications & Experience

Required Education & Experience

• High school diploma or CAEC (previously GED) required; Associate or Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field is preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a manufacturing environment, with at least 2 years in a supervisory role, managing 10+ employees over multiple shifts.
• Experience in the aerospace industry or a similar high-precision manufacturing environment is highly desirable.

Technical Skills

• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and blueprints, including GD&T.
• Familiarity with quality inspection tools and techniques.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.

Soft Skills

• Strong leadership and team management abilities.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision‑making skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced, deadline‑driven environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in the areas of sheet metal or machining is preferred.
• Experience with ERP systems, such as JDE.
• Certifications in Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, or related areas.

Why work at De Havilland?

De Havilland Canada is a Canadian‑owned and operated aircraft manufacturer dedicated to providing rewarding opportunities in a diverse and welcoming workplace.

• Work with a team that makes a true difference in the world‑making it possible for people to travel around the globe efficiently, comfortably and safely.
• We’ve manufactured over 5,600 aircraft including the most advanced turboprop in the air today. Our experience and expertise in constructing the highest performing aircraft in the industry is second to none.
• Our state‑of‑the‑art manufacturing facilities are dynamic workplaces led by teams that support and encourage all employees.
• With a passionate team of innovators and a global network of support, De Havilland Canada proudly carries on it’s tradition as a leader in aerospace.

In addition to plenty of opportunities for career growth in a stimulating work environment, De Havilland Canada offers:

• Competitive wages
• Paid vacation
• Extended health benefits (medical, dental, vision, paramedical)
• Life insurance
• RRSP/DPSP Plan
• Employee and family assistance program

At De Havilland Aircraft of Canada (DHC), we are committed to protecting our people, customers, shareholders and the public through Health & Safety Excellence. As such, it is expected that all employees maintain strict adherence to Health & Safety Policies and to perform key physical tasks of the position described in the job description and interview process. This may include but is not limited to the ability to work in a variety of environmental conditions including temperature extremes, confined spaces, working at heights and with or around chemicals. Employees are expected to adhere to the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) when at work which must include but is not limited to the ability to maintain a positive fit test when mask use is required.

At De Havilland Canada, we aim to be inclusive and diverse and provide equal opportunity for employment. All qualified applicants, regardless of gender, age, race, religion, sexual orientation, and disability, are encouraged to apply. De Havilland will accommodate the needs of applicants with disabilities throughout all stages of the selection process. If you need accommodation during the recruitment process, please advise your Talent Acquisition representative. Information relating to the need for accommodation and accommodation measures will be addressed confidentially.

Any offer of employment is conditional on the completion of positive and satisfactory background checks, which may include, proof that you are legally entitled to work in Canada, professional references, verification of employment history, verification of educational background and criminal background checks.